Key Takeaways:
- Nolan got his start in the bourbon industry through owning a wine and spirits distribution company in the 2000s. Distributing other companies' products exposed him to opportunities in the bourbon market.
- In 2010, he began sourcing new make whiskey from local distilleries like MGP and experimenting with aging and blending to develop unique flavor profiles.
- Re-barreling whiskey into different barrel types like port, sherry, rum barrels allows for innovation and customized flavor profiles.
- Building a brand is challenging as a non-distilling producer, requiring creativity to differentiate products made from sourced whiskey.
- Generating new product ideas comes from monthly team meetings where trends and opportunities are discussed openly.
- Consistency in blending batches while still introducing some variation keeps customers interested in trying new releases.
- Expanding distribution and online sales helps connect with a wider audience and find new customers.
- Nolan's goals are to continue innovating, run a successful small business, and make Backbone Bourbon a top Indiana destination for whiskey tourists.
Nolan Smith
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